There are several reasons why education is now seen as a “game” or a strategic priority for governments around the world:

1. Human Capital Development:
   • Governments recognize that education is a crucial investment in the development of human capital – the knowledge, skills, and capabilities of the population.
   • A skilled and educated workforce is essential for driving economic growth, innovation, and competitiveness in the global market.
2. Social Mobility and Equity:
   • Education is viewed as a powerful tool for promoting social mobility and reducing economic and social disparities within a society.
   • Governments aim to provide equal educational opportunities to ensure that individuals from diverse backgrounds have the chance to improve their socioeconomic status through education.
3. Ideological Influence:
   • Education systems can be used by governments to shape the values, beliefs, and worldviews of the younger generation, aligning with the ruling party’s or regime’s ideology.
   • Governments may seek to use education as a means of indoctrination, propagating their political agenda, and maintaining ideological control.
4. National Security and Soft Power:
   • Education can contribute to national security by producing a well-educated and informed citizenry, capable of critical thinking and problem-solving.
   • Governments may also use education as a tool of soft power, using it to project a positive image of the country and enhance its global influence.
5. Economic Competitiveness:
   • In the knowledge-based economy, a highly educated and skilled workforce is crucial for driving innovation, technological advancement, and economic prosperity.
   • Governments view investments in education as a strategic move to enhance the country’s competitiveness in the global marketplace.
6. Political Interests and Agenda:
   • Education policies can be a political game for governments, as they can be used to garner support from specific demographic groups, such as parents, teachers, or students.
   • Governments may manipulate educational policies to cater to their political interests and maintain power.
7. Resource Allocation and Budgetary Priorities:
   • Governments must make decisions on the allocation of resources and budgets for education, which can be a contentious and politicized process.
   • The distribution of educational resources, funding, and priorities can be a strategic game played by governments to achieve their desired outcomes.

In summary, education has become a strategic priority for governments due to its critical role in human capital development, social mobility, ideological influence, national security, economic competitiveness, and political interests. Governments view education as a “game” where they can leverage their policies and investments to shape the future of their societies and maintain their power and influence.